For most of the last century, feeding a dog was simple. You bought a bag of kibble, scooped it into a bowl, and that was that. The category was enormous, stable, and almost entirely owned by a handful of legacy giants competing on price and distribution.

This is not a story about what might happen in the future. It is a story about what is happening right now, and it is one of the most consequential and underreported developments in the technology sector today.

In January 2026, SpaceX applied with US regulators for approval to launch up to 1 million satellites designed to operate as solar-powered AI data centres in orbit. A few months later, Reuters reported that SpaceX itself warned prospective investors that these space-based AI data centre ambitions rely on unproven technologies and may never become commercially viable.

For decades, winning in CPG followed a familiar formula. Build a strong product, secure placement with a retail buyer, and fight for visibility in stores like Target or Whole Foods. Layer in paid media to drive awareness and, if everything worked, velocity would follow. It was a system built around access: to shelves, to distribution, and to the consumer’s attention. That system still matters, but it’s no longer the primary driver of discovery. Increasingly, demand is created before a consumer ever sets foot in a store or opens an app to shop.

For many brands today, technology sits at the centre of how the business operates, from booking systems and payments to supply chains, inventory forecasting, customer data, and even product development. It is no longer just a marketing tool or ecommerce channel.

Artificial intelligence isn’t something businesses are waiting for anymore. It’s already here, and it’s embedded in tools and workflows that companies of every size can access today.

The CFO who gets you to Series C is rarely the CFO who takes you to IPO. Yet most boards still hire “a CFO” as if the role is static.

For much of the last decade, AI has been discussed in the context of efficiency: faster workflows, better automation, smarter analysis. What’s becoming clearer now is that AI is starting to influence something much more fundamental which is how scientific discovery itself happens.

Jeff Bezos’ new venture, Project Prometheus, is the clearest sign yet that the world’s most influential operators believe this change has already started. And interestingly, many of the ideas Prometheus is built on are already emerging inside the UK’s deeptech sector.

In 2025, the supplement category is experiencing a transformation unlike anything happening in food, beverage, or beauty. It’s not simply that the market is growing; it’s that the role supplements play in consumers’ lives has fundamentally changed.

Hiring the right finance talent can unlock growth and improve your commercial decision-making. It also brings structure to creative chaos... But too often, agencies fall into traps that lead to mismatched hires, wasted money, and endless frustration. And they could all have been avoided if they’d just turned to a specialist. If you’ve ever rehired for the same role twice in a year, or onboarded someone great on paper who didn’t quite click in reality, this is for you…

Digital-first shopping behaviours like AI-powered personalisation, and influencer-driven discovery, have reshaped how products are made and marketed. The winners are those who are blending creativity with commercial intelligence and understand that finance plays just as important a role as design or brand storytelling.

2025 has been a big year for finance professionals across the creative industries. Agencies have been tightening budgets and production companies are rethinking their funding models. As a result, the financial sector has been complex but also full of opportunity.

Biotech start-ups are at the forefront of innovation, developing groundbreaking therapies and technologies that have the potential to change lives. But the path from a scientific breakthrough to a commercial success is often hindered by financial complexities that are unique to the biotech sector.

Private equity firms dabbling in tech isn’t new. But in 2024 and 2025, they’ve gone all-in.

One of the best parts of working with CPG start-ups and scale-ups is seeing that moment when everything clicks: products are moving, doors are opening, and customers are coming back for more.

There’s been no shortage of hot takes about AI and creativity floating around.

Hospitality, often seen as an old-school industry, is undergoing a massive transformation thanks to modern technology.

With the Boston Marathon just around the corner, Title Town prepares to welcome over 500,000 spectators and around 30,000 competing athletes. Patriots’ Day is one of the city’s biggest days of the year, and rain or shine (but hopefully shine, because this winter has been brutal), Boston will be electrified with energy and the sound of sneakers hitting concrete.

The modern world runs on data. From streaming services and cloud computing to AI and financial transactions, data centers are the backbone of the digital economy.

March is a time to celebrate both B Corp Month and International Women’s Day, making it the perfect opportunity to spotlight female-founded Food and Beverage businesses that are driving meaningful change.

When it comes to advertising, some brands rise above the noise by tapping into powerful emotions that connect with their audience on a deeper level.

In recent years, “better for you” food and beverage products have surged in popularity, reflecting more than a passing interest in healthier alternatives. Consumers today are demanding products that not only feature wholesome ingredients but also deliver exceptional taste and positive effects on well-being.

Data is like gold dust for ambitious start-ups and scale-ups.

Boston has established itself as a world leader in climate technology - the city (and the wider state of Massachusetts) is excelling in terms of scientific innovation, technological advancement, and commercial ambition.

As concerns around the climate emergency continue to intensify, the green energy sector has experienced soaring demand in recent years.

The global energy landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with an increasing emphasis on sustainable and renewable sources of power. Among these, solar energy has emerged as a frontrunner, heralding a cleaner and greener future. In fact, nearly half of all new electric capacity added to the grid in 2022 has come from solar. As the solar industry continues to grow and evolve, the role of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) becomes increasingly crucial.

Budgeting is a hugely important task for start-ups and small businesses. With rigorous and thorough budget planning, businesses can set themselves up for success and build a clear financial roadmap for the year ahead.

As we fast approach 2024, the world of fintech is hurtling through a digital cosmos, reshaping how we interact with our finances. The speed of innovation is relentless, and the financial landscape is undergoing a tectonic shift. Here, we take you on a high-velocity tour of the top 5 fintech trends that are rewriting the rules and revolutionizing the industry. Buckle up, because we're about to dive deep into the future of finance.

In a poignant and forward-looking conclusion to the Natural Products Expo East, industry enthusiasts, eco-conscious consumers, and CPG aficionados gathered to celebrate the evolution of conscious consumer packaged goods (CPG). With the Expo's last installment, attendees embarked on a journey into a future where sustainability, wellness, and ethical sourcing are paramount.

In a world of shifting tides and surging tech waves, we are seeing immense industry growth and new industries all together. Startups are emerging and growing rapidly as they follow and accommodate these trends of growth, and this is a time exciting as ever to dive into the startup world. In this article, I will explore the fastest growing industries in the United States, and discuss their impact on our tech-driven world.

The start-up world has experienced a major shift in gender dynamics in recent years. More and more female founders are breaking through traditional barriers and gaining momentum as entrepreneurs, launching successful businesses in every industry from skincare to biotechnology.

FinTech start-ups have made a huge impact in the world of finance, emerging as key disruptors that deliver innovative solutions for businesses and consumers alike.

A proud moment for many companies is to announce to the world that they have been awarded a B Corp certification. This growing group of companies are becoming B Corp certified through setting examples of best practices regarding workplace satisfaction, sustainability, mission, and values led practices and client/customer services. However, it is key to emphasize that this award is not given lightly.

Whether you’re a pre-rev start-up or a fast-growth business looking to scale, getting your internal finances in order is crucial for success.

The FinTech industry has earned a reputation for delivering constant innovation, cutting-edge technology, and groundbreaking products - and that isn’t going to change in 2023.

There are a lot of responsibilities involved with being a start-up leader, from generating new business to developing products and services. The to-do list can feel endless at times, meaning it’s easy to overlook important tasks and business opportunities.

Drinking alcohol has no doubt been a staple in society and the alcoholic drinks market is massive. However, since the pandemic, we have seen a rise in people wanting to have alcoholic alternatives that don’t lack flavor and sophistication.

The Boston start-up space is packed with innovative and progressive businesses that have achieved significant growth in a short period.

Boston and New York are well known for being innovative and creative hubs for new start-ups and businesses to thrive

Earlier this month, some of the Harmonic team and I had the pleasure of attending Web Summit 2022 held in Lisbon. Web Summit is Europe’s largest tech event that brings together some of the biggest names in tech alongside a global community of start-ups.

Hiring a CFO is a huge milestone for ambitious start-ups. These experts can completely transform the financial health and revenue potential of small businesses. CFOs often tackle vital responsibilities such as revenue forecasting, cash flow management, and strategic planning - all of which are key to sustained growth.

The COVID pandemic affected global economies, governments, and societies in many different ways.

The healthcare and biotech industries have always been a breeding ground for innovative, ambitious, and future-facing start-ups.

2021 was a huge year for growth in biopharma, with staggering numbers emerging both in terms of overall investment and funding rounds.

The role of FP&A teams (Financial Planning & Analysis) has evolved significantly over the years.

The FinTech market is growing at an astonishing rate. The industry value is expected to reach $310 billion by 2022, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. FinTech currently receives around $50 billion in investments every year - unsurprising when you consider that two-thirds of financial transactions are now made online.

With the pandemic still raging in the US, 2021 was a difficult year for many. However, the year also saw a huge amount of growth in many tech sectors with no sign of slowing down.

This article was sponsored by Harmonic Finance.

As a Founder or Investor, what should you expect from your CFO? How should this evolve as you shift from Seed through to Series E or IPO? Chris Short, our Boston-based SaaS expert for Harmonic Finance has the some of the answers.

Which SaaS metrics should you be measuring and Why? Our resident SaaS expert @Chris Short shares his thoughts

In the past two decades we have seen exponential growth in the Tech start-up and scale-up space and there is one trait, regardless of industry or sector, whether in SaaS, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, e-commerce, HealthTech, AdTech or a whole host of others, that they have in common and that is exponential headcount growth.

Once upon a time, marketing agencies existed to solely sell services to business and help companies make a profit. Today, some marketing agencies have chosen to be a driving force for good, offering a wide range of services - from campaigns and social media management to digital strategies and product launches - and many are focusing on selling goods and services that are people - and planet-friendly.

The UK faces two combined crises: housing and climate change. A chronic under-investment in housing and lengthy construction processes has led to a backlog of people in living in insufficient accommodation. Property prices also mean that many young people are stuck at their parents’, with a grasp of the housing ladder firmly out of reach.

What comes to mind when we think of Venture Capitalists, and the type of businesses they support? I imagine Silicon Valley and mobile apps! It might surprise you, then, that venture capital is one of the most significant sources of funding in the modern hospitality business. Our specialist, Dan, has all the info...

One of the most pressing questions when it comes to Covid-19, from all corners, is when a vaccine might be developed. Many of us were shocked to hear that it could take a year or more – highlighting our woeful lack of knowledge on the subject. However, that timescale will almost certainly be shortened next time we (as a species!) have to deal with such a pandemic, due to burgeoning advancements in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

In the spirit of this year’s movie theme I’m back with a sequel. Which ‘Joe Pesci in Home Alone’-style crowbars a combo of Financial and Royalties information into some X-mas eve content. Ho Ho Ho.

Have you ever wondered how much Christmas crooners rake in from their annual return to the airwaves? Wonder no longer... We compiled the Xmas royalties rich-list, complete with UK boybands, American divas and some one-hit-wonders. Enjoy!

Touts take money from the pockets of fans and artists, whilst often denying the true supporters their chance to catch their favourite artist live. Well, technology has said - no more! Here are some solutions to the tout problem along with Ed's thoughts on which will prevail...

How does an industry propped up by live events survive, and even thrive, during coronavirus? Monika Hewavitarne explores the innovative ways labels, events and artists have been bringing people together digitally; keeping the unique feeling of live music in a mass gathering but without the dangers of the virus.

​The engineering sector is no stranger to change. Technological advancements can reshape processes used for decades, almost overnight. Sometimes that change comes from within, but occasionally it is thrust upon the us by external forces. This is where engineering currently finds itself. This article’s aim is to explore the ways in which engineering is adapting to the problems of Covid-19, potentially for the better.

Fashion is big business. The global apparel market is growing year on year and is expected to reach an extravagant USD$1.5 trillion in 2020. But what does it take to be successful in such a competitive industry that is already bursting at the seams? Alex investigates some iconic fashion founders who have done just that...

We want to talk to you a little bit about what comes next. At the moment, it seems that every article or opinion piece is either leading you down the garden path by pretending all is fine and nothing has changed, or they’re pushing a narrative of doom and despair. As with most things, we need to be setting our sights somewhere down the middle - but with an optimistic twist. Allow Olly to elaborate...

As you’ll hopefully already be aware, Harmonic Finance and Harmonic Operations pride ourselves on recruiting for some of the world’s most cutting-edge technology companies. As a bit of light relief from that thing we’re all talking about (!), here’s some of our hot takes on the most exciting ‘Emerging Tech’ developments globally.

Many of you will be wondering what you can do to help during these unprecedented times. Where can you volunteer? Will it affect your furlough agreement? We have answer to all this and more... Read on and find out what you can do.

During the current lockdown, virtual onboarding is a necessary evil - but one that could be embraced even after this all has passed.

What do you imagine when you hear A&R: is it someone in a leather jacket hanging around the back of a darkened room 5 nights a week? Well, that’s what it has been for the last 40+ years, really. The cut of the jacket has changed but not much else. That's all set to change with the advent of AI for A&R...

Holy Moly was founded by best friends Gaz & Tom, whilst arguing one night about who makes the best guacamole. Now stocked nationally and growing rapidly, their vision to bring good guac to the UK has been realised. This interview is between our very own Emily and James... Holy Moly's first finance hire.

The music industry is notoriously tough and can take its toll on the mental health of those working in the field. Ed Naish took the time to explore the various options available for those struggling in the industry, including charities and organisations we've had the pleasure of supporting in the past.

Blockchain has been touted as the answer to business-ills for many years, but never really came of age. In this article, Monika examines the possible uses for blockchain within the music industry as we ask the question - music & blockchain, is it finally time?

​It’s a tough old game, food and beverages. In an industry where 9 in 10 startups fail, we need all the help we can get to succeed. If you get it right, there’s a huge market out there waiting to fill your coffers – food and beverage is the single largest manufacturing sector in the UK, turning over a cool £96 billion every year. With that said, Emily explores one of the biggest problems faced by F&B businesses: cash flow.

Film & TV is a ‘sexy’ industry to work in, right? Blockbuster movies, unmissable series, drama, comedy, action… It has it all. From the outside looking in, the industry is all about hiring the best actors and unearthing great storylines. While that is partially true, there is another (very important) force at play… finance.

This article delves into credit control’s crucial role, so that we can begin to understand what they do - and why now is the perfect time to hire one.

Every so often a company comes along that defines their market. It’s the reason why we call vacuum cleaners ‘Hoovers’ and why stick-based adhesives are called Pritt-sticks (a slice of primary school nostalgia for you all there). Netflix are this generation’s industry defining company... Shianne explores their effect on film and TV.

Furniture that combines digital technology has for a long time been a bit of a curiosity. If you grew up watching Star Trek, it’s the stuff of science fiction made real: tables with interactive menus built in, chairs that change their structure to suit your body shape and advertising that allows you to place items in your home using augmented reality... In this article Charlotte looks at some of the newest design gadgets in town.

We took a staff trip to Lisbon to enjoy the amazing Nova Batida festival. This write up brings you the sights, sounds and flavours of the festival as it happened.

Fashion and technology haven't always kept pace with each other, but that could be about to change. With advances in blockchain technology, RFID chips and more; we could be about to see a fashion tech revolution.

With studies showing that trust between a CFO and CEO is paramount to a good relationship, we explore what this can mean for your business and how to foster that environment.

Major US investment revitalises a brutalist eyesore in the heart of Camden - a positive sign of things to come?

Being a CFO is pretty cool anyway, but CFO of a group that encompasses record labels and music festivals? We had to find out more. Check out our interview with Johnny Evans - CFO of AEI group.

With retail giants closing down around us, we examined 9 of the fastest growing UK businesses to try and work out what makes them tick...

The dreaded brown envelope. The harbinger of the HMRC Investigation. Does a visit from the tax man have to be terrifying? We look at why they investigate, what process they follow and how you can avoid them coming in the first place…